Yesterday, I was about to start paperwork with my school for a second ED visa.

They told me that if I want to go to Vientiane or HCMC, I need to switch course to Chinese language. (I have studied Thai with them for one year.)

This conveniently, for them, charges me an additional 5,000฿ to attend. (I have no interest in learning Chinese but would like to improve my Thai.)

They think or are unsure if my application will be approved by saying I will study a second year of Thai.

Are they right? Is this a money grab?

I again reached out for help and was told by an authority on these matters:

“Vientiane will only issue another ED visa (no matter the subject) IF you have a year from the date of issue from the previous visa.”

It’s will have been over a running year since my first ED visa was issued early September 2018 and I intend to apply for a new ED in November 2019.

I hope this is helpful to others.

If anyone has experience that confirms this or that is to the contrary, your comments are welcome. Thanks.